OUR TWO PRODUCT RANGES

SEARCH BY THE ACTIVITIES YOU LOVE

EXPLORE OUR CAMPAIGN

WASHING, DRYING AND MAINTAINING.

Our History

From the very beginning the GORE-TEX brand has been committed to supporting the passions that keep people moving.

Since 1976, Gore’s technologies have been part of countless adventures around the globe—and even on the moon. And with an enormous amount of energy, resources, and dedication, we continue to innovate with new technologies and solutions.

1959

THE START OF SOMETHING SPECIAL

Gore founders Bill and Vieve

Wilbert L. (Bill) and Genevieve (Vieve) Gore launch Gore in the basement of their home in Newark, Delaware. Bill left his job at DuPont to pursue what he believes is the untapped potential of the PTFE (polymer polytetrafluoroethylene).

1969

A DISCOVERY THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING

Bill discovers the power of expanded PTFE.

ePTFE, or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, is created by Bill’s son Bob Gore when he rapidly stretches PTFE under certain conditions. The result is an incredibly strong, microporous material with an amazing list of characteristics, including low water adsorption and good weathering properties.

1970

THE VERY FIRST PATENTS

A microscopic view of ePTFE.

Gore applies for what will become the first of many patents for product technologies made with Gore's signature polymer ePTFE (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene).

1976

FIRST COMMERCIAL ORDERS

Outdoor enthusiasts wearing the first GORE-TEX jackets.

Gore receives its first commercial order for GORE-TEX fabric — the first breathable, waterproof, and windproof fabric on the market.